


Jack is initially reluctant, but the promise of a $500,000 paycheck convinces him otherwise. His task: take four raw recruits and help them achieve the most out of their powers so they can face super nemesis Concussion (Kevin Zegers), who is about to return from exile in another dimension. Grant (Chevy Chase), and General Larraby (Rip Torn) - elects to draft him back into service. Captain Zoom (Allen), has been enjoying retirement for 30 years when the government - led by scientist Marsha Holloway (Cox), supervisor Dr. (She's not remotely convincing as a geekette, in case you're wondering.) The film's idea of "funny" is Courteney Cox doing a pratfall or pleading with kids not to damage her mint-condition comic book collection. And, unlike the aforementioned films, which had a wry sense of humor about superhero clichés, Zoom possesses an earnestness that's cloying. Every moment of Zoom has a "been there, done that" feeling. School for superheroes in training - check. Retired superhero returns to save the world - check. There's not a single thing in Zoom that wasn't handled better in The Incredibles and/or Sky High. (Lucky film critic that I am, I got to see them back-to-back.) This is a misfire of heroic proportions, and the only reason it's not the worst movie in theaters this weekend is because Pulse opened the same day. Tim Allen, upon whose shoulders this sorry production rests, is still playing the same basic character he essayed when Tim the Tool Guy was on top of the TV ratings heap. When it comes to action, comedy, and drama, three words apply: lamer, lamer, lamest. However, it's difficult to imagine what might appeal to a younger audience. To the extent that such a label indicates there is nothing of value or interest for adults, it's apt. Someone in a charitable mood might consider Zoom to be a kids' film.
